To
refresh your memory I represent an organization called the Media Action Network
for Asian Americans (MANAA) and we spoke on Sept. 5 about the lack of
significant roles for Asian American males in “Fast and the Furious 2.” We
ended the conversation with you willing to arrange a meeting with director John
Singleton but you never gotten back to us, and now this movie is heavy into
production.It is a mistake to continue
production with the current cast of the film.

Asian
Americans have been in the forefront of the import car scene and responsible
for its growth and popularity across the county. It is no secret that Universal
and the first “Fast and the Furious” enjoyed the support of Asian Americans as
the film grossed well over $150 million and with Rick Yune in the picture, we
were happy to do it. But in this incarnation, the only featured Asian American
character is Devon Aoki, a woman who is only half Asian. You mentioned that the
movie is set in Miami, a city that does not have a significant Asian American
population. I am curious to see how you came to this conclusion because I am
prepared to send you pictures and websites featuring the Miami car scene, which
all have Asian Americans. You also stated that the Asian American male actors
who submitted to the project were not qualified. Our source tells us that Dante
Basco was mentioned as a candidate, an actor who has been in a movie for every
major studio, including yours. To not have an Asian American male in a movie
about street racing reminds me of a time when movie studios and white artists
exploited the music and dance moves of African Americans – please do not let
this happen for the Asian Americans.

MANAA
has been one of Universal’s biggest fans (presenting Media Achievement Awards
to “Dragon,” “Vanishing Son” and “American Pie 2”). In return you have been one
of our biggest financial supporters – we are now asking you for your ultimate
support. Use us as consultants and advisors to the film project – free of
charge. Coordinate a meeting with John Singleton as you promised so we can
discuss further how we can accurately portray the import car culture. Have us
screen the rough cut and incorporate our thoughts and concerns. Recently,
Disney benefited from our expertise when they asked us to consult on “Pearl
Harbor.”

Thank
you for your time and I look forward to meeting with you and John.